Finding of gross misconduct against police officer

An independent disciplinary panel has concluded that Metropolitan Police officer PC Mark Dawson breached Police standards of professional behaviour as a result of his use of force upon press photographer Anthony Devlin.

Pursuant to those professional standards, police officers may only use force that is necessary, proportionate and reasonable in all the circumstances. The panel concluded that the breach of this standard amounted to Gross Misconduct for which PC Dawson was given a Final Written Warning.

The incident occurred on 7 June 2017 while PC Dawson was working as a Close Protection Officer at a General Election Rally being held by Jeremy Corbyn in Colwyn Bay, Wales. PC Dawson was given a Final Written Warning for his misconduct.

Mr Devlin said:

“I’m pleased with the verdict of the panel. I hope that this decision helps inform a better understanding within the police in respect of the rights of press photographers to report on political rallies and to move freely in public places. I hope that this will create better working conditions for the press in the future. I would also like to thank the witnesses to the incident who gave up their time to travel to London and give evidence to the panel.”